Residents are being called upon to participate in a bold community-led initiative to restore biodiversity and rejuvenate a 16-acre site in Charlcombe Valley. Once used as grazing farmland, this area is set to be transformed into a vibrant wildlife haven over the next five years.
The Charlcombe Community Nature Reserve features a diverse landscape of grassland, ancient hedgerows, woodland, and wetlands. Management of the reserve is a partnership between the Friends of Charlcombe Community Nature Reserve and Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council.
Ecological surveys conducted over the past year have revealed a rich variety of wildlife, including 21 butterfly species, small mammals such as shrews and harvest mice, and amphibians like toads and frogs. Additionally, two of the UK’s three native woodpecker species have been spotted on the reserve.
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Mike Collins, chair of the Friends group, emphasizes the collaborative nature of the project: “This plan outlines our vision for a future where wildlife thrives through the efforts of local people working alongside neighbouring landowners.”
Collins highlights the tangible progress made in just one year, noting a 33% increase in species-rich grassland indicators and a rise in waxcap fungi — both signs of successful habitat restoration. He adds, “It’s inspiring to see so many community members eager to get involved and support nature recovery.”
The five-year roadmap focuses on four key objectives:
- Enhancing habitat quality across the reserve
- Increasing biodiversity through targeted conservation practices
- Expanding community engagement and educational opportunities
- Securing sustainable funding and resources for ongoing management
Councillor Sarah Warren, B&NES Cabinet Member for Sustainability, praises the local community’s role: “Collaborating with residents is vital in addressing the ecological crisis. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, this former farmland is blossoming into a vital nature reserve that connects people with their local environment.”
Following public consultations, activities such as guided nature walks, foraging workshops, and wildflower planting were incorporated into the plan. Volunteers have already contributed over 500 hours this year to activities like grass scything and wildlife monitoring, with further initiatives set to launch in 2025/26.
Ecologist Rupert Higgins, who led recent surveys, is encouraged by the outcomes: “After years of neglect, it’s rewarding to observe the positive impact of sustained volunteer efforts and council management. This reserve plays a crucial role in Somerset’s network of wildlife sites.”
To support ongoing monitoring, the Friends group is raising funds to acquire equipment including hazel dormouse tracking kits, wildlife trail cameras, and pond-dipping tools for the site’s newly created ponds. Residents can participate by volunteering monthly, sharing wildlife sightings via iNaturalist, or contributing historical knowledge of the valley.
Together, this community-driven project is breathing new life into Charlcombe Valley, creating a sanctuary where nature and people thrive in harmony.